CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Duke Energy says there were a record number of fraud attempts against its customers in the month of June. Over 4,000 subscribers disclosed scam activity to the company. So far in 2020, customers have reported 15,000 attempts, compared to 20,000 in 2019.
“Scammers appear to be preying on the uncertainty and financial hardship caused by the pandemic, and they are tracking trends and adjusting their tactics,” said Duke Energy VP Jared Lawrence. “As new scam techniques are employed, it is imperative that customers stay alert, informed, and make a concerted effort to guard their personal information and money.”
Duke Energy says that customers who suspect that they have been victims of fraud or think they are being scammed should hang up the phone and call their utility provider on the number provided on their bill. Officials also said you should never purchase a prepaid debit or gift card.